Shai Gilgeous-Alexander did not play on Friday as the Oklahoma City Thunder faced off against the Memphis Grizzlies. The reigning NBA Most Valuable Player missed the game due to an ankle sprain, marking just the second contest he’s sat out for the Thunder this season.
OKC still managed to defeat the Grizzlies despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s absence, 117-116. Jalen Williams led the charge for the shorthanded Thunder, finishing with 26 points on 9-of-18 shooting, five rebounds, 10 assists, a steal and one block in 36 minutes of action.
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The Thunder improved to 32-7 after beating Memphis. They remain first in the Western Conference and still have the best record in the NBA.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) missed their game against the Memphis Grizzlies.© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
OKC is back in action on Sunday. They will face the Miami Heat at home as the Thunder look to make it three wins in a row.
The good news for OKC is that Gilgeous-Alexander will be back against Miami. The Thunder announced the three-time All-Star’s availability on Saturday. Gilgeous-Alexander was not listed on the team’s official injury report for the Heat game.
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Gilgeous-Alexander is having another big year, and his return from an ankle injury is a crucial development for the Thunder. In 37 games played this season, the 27-year-old guard has averaged 31.9 points on 54.8% shooting, 4.5 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 1.4 steals in 33.3 minutes per contest. Gilgeous-Alexander is also knocking down 2.0 triples per game on a 39.8% clip.
The Thunder will host the Heat on Sunday, with tip-off from Paycom Center scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET.
Related: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Issues Ultimatum to Thunder After Hawks Game
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 11, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.